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IT Accessibility Coordinator Position

Mar 6th, 2019 by

The State of Maryland is hiring a IT Accessibility Coordinator.  This position will be co-located between MD Technology Assistance Program (MDTAP) and the Department of Information Technology (DoIT).  

The state is seeking an experienced IT accessibility specialist who can help state agencies select the most accessible products and systems and help provide accessible solutions to existing state technology.  The IT Accessibility Coordinator will provide technical assistance with identified DoIT staff to ensure that State information technology services and systems are accessible to people with disabilities. Specifically, this position is responsible for identifying potential accessibility issues and compliance violations and coordinating solutions with State agency IT and/or procurement staff. The position involves providing training and creating guidelines to be used by procurement and/or IT staff. 

For more information and job posting, CLICK HERE

DEADLINE IS MARCH 12TH!!

Posted in Assistive Technology, AT News, MD Technology Assistance Program, Web Accessibility | No Comments »

Talking Thermometer

Mar 1st, 2019 by

A Talking Medical Thermometer for People with Vision Impairmentsthermometer in case and box next to case

 

By: Joel Hosner, MDTAP Advisory Council Consumer Representative

People with vision impairments can measure their body temperature, or take the temperature of a child, with the Advocate Infrared Thermometer! No sight is needed to use the Advocate because it reads the temperature reading out loud through a speaker. The thermometer is used by simply holding the device 2-3.75 inches away from a person’s forehead, pressing a button, and the body temperature reading is spoken in English or Spanish in less than one second. This method is convenient and more hygienic because the thermometer does not need to come in contact with the person who may be sick. The thermometer can even measure the ambient temperature of a room. The Advocate is less than 6 inches long and a storage case is included.

 

The Advocate Infrared Thermometer retails at $29.99 but can be purchased for as little as $20.49 through Overstock.com.

For more information, check out the Advocate Infrared Thermometer’s website: https://advocatemeters.com/advocate-non-contact-infrared-thermometer/.

Check out these links to purchase online: https://www.overstock.com/Health-Beauty/Advocate-Non-contact-Infrared-Speaking-Thermometer/12089220/product.html

https://www.amazon.com/Advocate-Infrared-Thermometer-Forehead-Technology/dp/B016CGJT8E

Posted in MD Technology Assistance Program | No Comments »

Fond Farewell to Executive Director Jim McCarthy

Feb 27th, 2019 by

It’s with mixed emotions that we announce that Jim McCarthy is leaving the Maryland Technology Assistance Program.  MDOD Secretary Carol Beatty has appointed Lori Markland as the Acting Executive Director of MD TAP effective 2/27. 

Jim has served as the Executive Director of MDTAP for 5 years, and will now be working with the Federal Rehabilitation Services Administration, joining the team that provides federal guidance to the Randolph-Sheppard Program of blind vendors. We’re all sorry to see him leave, but know that he’ll make a great contribution to this program.  Our loss is surely their gain. 

Lori Markland has been with the State for approximately 17 years and is currently the Director of Access Maryland and Accessibility Programs for MDTAP.  She also served as the Communications Manager for Maryland ABLE, an investment plan for people with disabilities. With extensive experience in the disability field, communications, marketing, and program management, Lori has a breadth of experience related to assistive technology, disability services, and accessible information technology. She holds a BA and MFA from the University of Baltimore.  The wealth of experience and knowledge she brings to the position will help ensure that MD TAP continues to serve people throughout the state without any disruption.

Posted in Maryland Department of Disabilities, MD Technology Assistance Program | No Comments »

“Access” the movie

Feb 21st, 2019 by

Check out this awesome guy, Chris Higgins, and his film “Access”. 

Still shot of Cory's back walking down the street from movie "Access"

The film follows Cory Joseph through his day and how he uses technology and supports to navigate the world as someone with a visual impairment.  The best part of the story is how the film came to be.  Chris started developing the film in 2015, and it took him four years to learn the lesson he was trying to teach-making things accessible from the start is always best.  Even the most well-intentioned folks among us need a little reminder now and then!  The film can be seen at accessmovie.org  But don’t miss the article by Chris about the journey to make the film.  Making the Film

Posted in Assistive Technology, Blind/Low Vision Aids , MD Technology Assistance Program, Things to Know Thursday | No Comments »

Maryland ABLE Accounts

Feb 19th, 2019 by

People with Disabilities Can Save for the Future, Without Reducing Government Benefits

By: Joel Hosner, MDTAP Advisory Council Consumer Representative

Maryland ABLE logo

The State of Maryland has authorized the creation of ABLE accounts, a way to save up to $100,000 for future expenses, without the assets counting against the $2,000 limit to be eligible to receive SSI (Supplemental Security Income). Eligible expenses include living expenses, education, housing, and assistive technology, anything related to your disability.

To open an ABLE account, the beneficiary must have developed a qualifying disability before the age of 26. Parents can open an ABLE account on behalf of their children with qualifying disabilities. Up to $15,000 can be deposited each year, and the money invested can grow free of federal and state tax. Contributions to an ABLE account may qualify for a deduction from Maryland state income taxes up to $2,500 per year per beneficiary ($5,000 for joint filers).

To learn more about Maryland ABLE accounts, go to https://www.marylandable.org/.

Posted in AT Funding | No Comments »

Reeve Connect

Feb 15th, 2019 by

NEWS FROM THE REEVE FOUNDATION:

We are pleased to share that the Reeve Foundation has launched a new, fully redesigned online community—Reeve Connect.

This interactive, safe space offers a number of opportunities for individuals, family members and caregivers to ask questions, share their experiences, and connect with those who understand the impact of paralysis. Reeve Connect has five categories that are moderated by fellow community members and experts who are eager to engage and offer support.

Reeve Connect Categories
·         Newly Paralyzed
·         New Normal
·         Health & Wellness
·         Relationships
·         What Works
 
You will see some familiar names like Nurse Linda as well as Reeve Foundation Information Specialists and peer mentors. Additionally, there are Community Groups where you can virtually connect with others that have similar interests and shared experiences like groups for caregivers, Veterans, LGBTQ+,  parents, and advocates.

Reeve Connect will address the everyday and intimate realities of paralysis. This platform will be a great opportunity to help individuals navigate challenges whether they have been recently diagnosed or have been living with paralysis for some time.

Please help us raise awareness for Reeve Connect by getting the word out within your respective community and share on social media using #ReeveConnect.
 
There is so much to see and do within Reeve Connect—have fun exploring and thank you for joining!

Posted in Assistive Technology, Mobility Aids | No Comments »

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